shelter

/ˈshel-tər/

origin unknown

noun

  1. something that covers or affords protection

  2. an establishment providing food, protection, and temporary housing for people who need assistance

  3. an establishment that houses and feeds stray or unwanted animals

a bomb shelter

a shelter for battered women

verb

  1. to constitute or provide a shelter for : protect

  2. to place under shelter or protection

  3. to protect (income) from taxation

has led a sheltered life

noun

  1. one of the halves of a shelter tent